Examining Undergraduates' Library Priorities Through Q Methodology

This research study examined how undergraduates at the University of Mississippi prioritized current and prospective library services and spaces. Q methodology was used to identify and classify students' viewpoints through the statistical analysis of card sorting arrangements. Q method is unique in that it embraces both the subjectivity of an individual's perspective while also mathematically aligning that perspective with other similarly minded participants. Forty students were asked to rank-order a sixty-item card deck on a structured grid. These arrangements were then compared across participants to identify group patterns. Quantitative factor analysis revealed that students' perspectives clustered around four distinct points of views: the Environmentalists, the Space Advocates, the Ideological Traditionalists, and the Weekenders. Dimensions and characteristics of each factor are presented along with card rankings and excerpts from exemplar factor student interviews. High priority items where all factors converged-textbook checkout, a tutoring center, printing, and research assistance-are also discussed. Q methodology is proffered as an alternative to traditional library surveys in determining characteristics within one's user population. Recommendations for implementation of Q methodology results at our institution are considered as well as follow-up research initiatives.